Bean soup

Bean Soup with Smoked Ham Hock

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Bean soup is a traditional dish, rich in flavor and warmth, reminiscent of hearty family meals. This recipe for bean soup with smoked ham hock is not just a delicious meal but also a nostalgic experience that will warm the hearts of everyone who enjoys it. Whether served on a chilly day or as part of a festive meal, this soup is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Ingredients

- 500 g dried beans
- 300 g smoked pork hock or bacon
- 1 large carrot
- 1 yellow onion (or red, for serving)
- 1 parsley root
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower oil
- 2-3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 200 ml sour cream
- Fresh lovage for garnish

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Beans
Start by sorting the dried beans, removing any impurities or damaged beans. Rinse them well in several waters, then place them in a pot of unsalted water to boil. Alternatively, you can soak them in cold water overnight, which will help them cook evenly. This technique is essential, especially if the beans are from the previous year.

2. Boiling the Beans
Once the beans have been soaked or rinsed, bring them to a boil. When the water starts boiling, let them cook for 10-15 minutes. Then, drain the water and replace it with hot water (make sure to have a pot of water on the stove ready). This technique will help the beans maintain their texture.

3. Adding the Ham Hock
When the beans are half-cooked, add the smoked ham hock, which you’ve rinsed and cut into pieces. Using a boneless hock will make the soup easier to serve. Also, add the whole onion (which you will remove later), the parsley root, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Finalizing the Soup
Near the end of cooking, add the carrot sliced into rounds or quarters, lovage leaves, tomato paste, and oil. Before adding the tomato paste, ensure the heat is not too high. In a small pot, heat the oil, and when warm, add the tomato paste. Mix well and add a bit of hot broth from the pot to dilute it, then pour the mixture into the soup.

5. Adding the Sour Cream
If you prefer a creamier soup, add sour cream. Mix the sour cream in a bowl with a wooden spoon and gradually pour in small amounts of hot broth, stirring continuously. Repeat this process 3-4 times to thin the sour cream, then pour it into the soup. Allow it to boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove the pot from the heat.

6. Serving
Bean soup is served hot, garnished with sliced red onion or green onions for added freshness. Top with fresh lovage for an attractive presentation and extra flavor.

Chef's Tip
If you want to avoid using a roux, adding sour cream at the end is an excellent alternative that will give the soup a creamy texture. For a more intense flavor, you can also add a few peppercorns for an extra kick.

Variations
For a vegetarian version of this soup, you can replace the ham hock with mushrooms or smoked vegetables. Additionally, you can add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to enrich the flavor and nutrition of the dish.

Nutritional Benefits
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to digestive health and maintaining a healthy weight. Moreover, the smoked ham hock adds protein and a distinctive taste that enriches this soup.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the soup to remove excess salt and preservatives.

2. What other sides pair well with bean soup?
Freshly baked bread or polenta are excellent sides that can accompany bean soup.

3. How long does the soup keep in the fridge?
Bean soup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

4. Is bean soup good for freezing?
Yes, bean soup can be frozen, but it’s recommended to do so without sour cream. Add it after thawing to maintain a creamy texture.

Bean soup with smoked ham hock is more than just a dish; it’s a true culinary experience that blends tradition with simple yet flavorful ingredients. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent with your loved ones!

 Ingredients: 500 g beans, smoked pork hock, ribs or belly, 1 carrot, 1 onion (yellow, red onion is very good when serving soup), 1 parsnip root, salt, pepper to taste, 2-3 tablespoons oil, tomato paste, sour cream, fresh lovage.

 Tags:  bean soup